Message Dan and Mike
We review Frank Oz’s Little Shop of Horrors (1986), the cult musical comedy starring Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, and Steve Martin, just ahead of its 40th anniversary on December 19.
We revisit the film on the new 4K UHD digibook, including the director’s cut that restores the original ending. We cover why test audiences rejected that ending, how the film was reshot, and what it meant for the crew who built it. We also celebrate the performances: Moranis and Greene as Seymour and Audrey, Levi Stubbs as the voice of Audrey II, the three-woman Greek chorus, and Steve Martin’s legendary turn as the sadistic dentist, with Bill Murray, Christopher Guest, and John Candy rounding out one of the best comedy casts of the decade.
Then we get into the behind-the-scenes stories: the practical effects, the forced perspective, the Skid Row number, the dozens of puppeteers it took to run the plant, and the other films shooting at Pinewood at the same time. Our favorite segment is the “who could have been” list, from Madonna and Cyndi Lauper to Travolta, Robin Williams, and Billy Joel, plus the directors who were attached before Oz.
Whether or not you like musicals, this one is funny, sweet, and a masterclass in filmmaking. Mike also shares the story of playing Seymour on stage.
We wrap with our latest Criterion Collection pickups, including the Kubrick box set.
Real Brothers. Reel Talk. Follow us @ohbpodcast or visit ohbpodcast.com.
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